2004 Toyota Brevis

Toyota Brevis is the twins sister of Progres, which is the forerunner to Altezza, hence making the Brevis an enlarged Lexus IS. Unlike Progres, the new Brevis aims at younger customers and compete directly with imports like BMW 3-series and Mercedes C-class. Basically, the chassis and powertrains are identical to Progres. What makes it more appealing is a (relatively) handsome exterior styling and a beautifully trimmed interior. The headlamps consists of three round type reams. The feeling of luxury and elegant space is reflected by using the glass green lighting for the speedometer and the clock. The stylish center console houses a LCD monitor and an alloy-effect sound system which consists of a on-dash CD changer, DVD and MD playback, with 7 speakers on the top model.

Brevis rides on the same rear-drive platform as Lexus IS, with wheelbase extended to 2,780mm (109.4in) to better all its European rivals. In terms of size and weight, it stand between a BMW 3-series and 5-series, so cabin space is plenty. However, dynamically speaking it can hardly match the European rivals (that role is left for Lexus to fulfill), although rides on double-wishbones suspensions. Suspension is set softer than the Lexus, steering is less direct, and its 1,550kg (3,417lb) kerb weight also hurt handling agility.